Chiclayo was our base for our visits to Tucume Pyramids, Lambayeque, the Tumbes of Sipan, the Ferrenafe Musuem and the Bruning Museum, so we thought we’d share with you a little about this city too. (Wow, we were busy here!) Besides eating the most wonderful ceviche ever and dancing mingling with amazing families of Chiclayo, we loved this buzzing metropolis for all it’s charm and welcoming locals.
History
Chiclayo in Peru was initially founded in the 16th century by a Spanish priest as a village and until the 19th century continued as a small town. It is only in the later part of the 20th century that Chiclayo has grown to a large metropolis.
It is one of the most interesting northern coastal cities of Peru which combines a very scenic country side and a pristine coastline. However the major tourist attraction is its old vibrant ethnic Mochica culture and the abundance of ruins and archaeologically rich edifices and structures spread over Chiclayo.
The architecture reflects the history of the colonial past and the cuisine merges between the continental and the ethnic bringing out rich aromas and flavors merged over continents.
Attractions
One huge archaeological site of significance is the Tucume, popularly known as the Valley of the Pyramids. There are 26 of them to visit and explore. Abundant with incredible archaeological ruins and sites set over picturesque landscapes is an experience in itself. Also popular in this area is the older but effective folk healing remedies which have been passed on from one generation to another.
The Lord of Sipan is a recent archaeological wonder discovered in the recent times just 35 Kms to the east of Chiclayo. The identity of the monarch is shrouded in mystery except that he was a spanish monarch around the 16th century. It is now popularly known as the golden wonder and definitely worth a visit.
The entire community takes an active interest in the preservation of the culture and natural heritage enabling traditions of centuries and generations to survive.
A warm and temperate sub tropical climate throughout the year except the mountainous regions the coast is also a popular surfers haunt attracting surfers from all over the world.
Chiclayo is connected by flight (hourly flights from Lima) and extensive bus routes connect Chiclayo via the North Panamerican Highway.
Lainie Liberti is a recovering branding expert, who’s career once focused on creating campaigns for green – eco business, non-profits and conscious business. Dazzling clients with her high-energy designs for over 18 years, Lainie lent her artistic talents to businesses that matter. But that was then.
In 2008, after the economy took a turn, Lainie decided to be the change (instead of a victim) and began the process of “lifestyle redesign,” a joint decision between both her and her 11-year-old son, Miro. They sold or gave away all of of their possessions in 2009 and began a life of travel, service, and exploration. Lainie and her son Miro began their open-ended adventure backpacking through Central and South America. They are slow traveling around the globe allowing inspiration to be their compass. The pair is most interested in exploring different cultures, contributing by serving, and connecting with humanity as ‘global citizens.’
Today Lainie considers herself a digital nomad who is living a location independent life. She and her son write and podcast their experiences from the road at Raising Miro on the Road of Life.
